Mark,
When you have several directions to go in, choosing the 'right' one is nothing more than a guessing game. Only those of us who encountered further problems are familiar with ADRs, etc.
I am curious... past surgeries and scar tissue diminish the success rate of ADRs, if one becomes necessary in the future. A discectomy weakens the disc, putting and increased pressure on adjacent discs. Though I had no choice and was more concerned with ending my pain quickly, today I'm not sure I would have made those same decisions. Am I wrong in the above assumptions? Also, as I have been told, first discectomies have an 80% success rate, as did mine for 8 years and then I became ADR material.
Diane has a large heriations and won't the removal of that much disc material substancially weaken her disc? I did see that her discs were hydrated and healthy. Does that indicate a better chance at long term success? Is her doctor giving her a successful percentage?
My hat is off to you for not directing her choice. I do understand that though you don't want her to make a mistake, you also can't be responsible for her ultimate outcome. Having watched you suffer for years is almost assuredly part of her decision making process.
My kitchen should be done within the next month (almost 2 months late), so I'll freeze the stuffed cabbage. It tastes better that way anyway!
I do so wish her a successful surgery and speedy recovery. And please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. My heart and hands are open to the two of you.
Dale